For Patients

Drisdol (ergocalciferol) is used to treat hypoparathyroidism (decreased functioning of the parathyroid glands). It is vitamin D2. This medication is available in generic form. Vitamin D at normal doses usually has no side effects. If you have unusual effects, contact your doctor.

To treat hypoparathyroidism the dose of Drisdol is 50,000 to 200,000 IU units daily taken with calcium lactate 4 g, six times per day. To treat Vitamin D resistant rickets the dose is 12,000 to 500,000 IU units daily. The range between therapeutic and toxic doses is narrow, and this medication should be given under close medical supervision. Drisdol may interact with sucralfate, mineral oil (taken as a laxative), seizure medications, steroids, digoxin, or diuretics (water pills). Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. During pregnancy, doses of vitamin D greater than the recommended dietary allowance should be used only when prescribed. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Our Drisdol (ergocalciferol) Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is Patient Information in Detail?

Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.

SIDE EFFECTS: Vitamin D at normal doses usually has no side effects. If you have any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to take this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.